The Oak @ Buena Vista Bluffs is a spacious upscale studio apartment (sleeps 2) in a very secluded area in the hills of Mentone. It is one of three apartments in this complex, is located on the bottom level and is accessed by a flight of stairs. Relax outside on the screened-in porch while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature or snuggle up on the couch and read your favorite book!
Our terrain is a bit rugged. The drive & parking areas are gravel. There is enough parking for one vehicle per reservation directly in front of the property. There is room for additional cars at the top of the hill.
The building is a prefabricated concrete structure (much like a hotel) & you may hear your neighbors if there are other guests staying.
The apartment features:
-A screened-in porch for your morning coffee and quiet time in nature without the bug bites!
-A fully equipped kitchenette with a one-burner electric cooktop
-A fire pit for your smores
-Cozy furnishings and thoughtful touches for ultimate relaxation
-Pet friendly! Bring your furry friends along for just a $60 pet fee per pet. (No cats, please)
*Airbnb & VRBO allow us to require a security deposit & rental agreement.
The security deposit is not a withdrawal, only a hold released 24 hours after check-out & is processed by our third-party software. The rental agreement states our house rules.
Things to do in Mentone:
-Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort: Whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, Cloudmont has you covered. Enjoy skiing in the colder months and a round of golf when it’s warm.
-Mentone Arts Center: Dive into the local culture by visiting the Mentone Arts Center. It hosts various classes, workshops, and events that showcase the rich artistic heritage of the region.
-The Gourdie Shop: Explore a unique collection of hand-painted and dressed gourds at this specialty shop. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
-The Groovy Goat: Located in the Log Cabin Village, this gift shop offers a variety of unique items and a nostalgic shopping experience.
-The Shops at Moon Lake Village: A collection of shops and studios housed in Mentone’s former community school building. It’s a great place to browse for unique gifts and local crafts.
Places to dine in Mentone:
-Wildflower Café: A local favorite, this charming café offers delicious Southern cuisine with a unique twist. Don’t miss their famous tomato pie.
-Green Leaf Grill: Enjoy a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for any meal.
-The Hatter Café: Step back in time at this whimsical café that serves up delightful breakfast and brunch options. It’s the perfect place to start your day.
-Moon Lake Trading Company: Not just a place to shop, but also to grab a bite at their permanent taco stand. Enjoy some tasty tacos while browsing through unique gifts and plants.
If you'd like to expand your adventures, Fort Payne is only a 20-minute drive! There are endless discoveries in this beloved city! Here are a few of our favorite things to do in the area!
NATURE:
-Stand on the edge of the world at the Wolf Creek Overlook for truly amazing canyon views at LITTLE RIVER CANYON PRESERVE. Gaze down into the majestic chasm carved by the Little River. Grab your binoculars! Watch vultures and raptors soar above the canyon. Pedal through the Wildlife Management Area on your bike. Cast your line into the crystal-clear waters of Little River. Pack a picnic basket and savor the tranquility by the river.
-DESOTO STATE PARK is made up of roughly 3,500 acres of forest, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain terrain. Home to the state’s second-highest waterfall, the 104 foot DeSoto Falls is beautiful!
With kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking, cycling, rappelling, bouldering, picnicking, wildflower expeditions, camping and swimming, we literally have it all!
-For more hiking, fishing, and breathtaking canyon views at BUCK'S POCKET STATE PARK!
WATERFALLS:
Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to chase the stunning waterfalls in Fort Payne!
-Located in DeSoto State Park, DeSoto Falls is a 104-foot waterfall on the West Fork of the Little River. The falls have carved their own small canyon, creating a picturesque scene.
-Martha’s Falls is a popular swimming area within Little River Canyon National Preserve.
-Little River Falls is located within Little River Canyon National Preserve. This waterfall marks the beginning of the Little River Canyon. This is a must-see for nature lovers and waterfall enthusiasts.
-Great for swimming, hiking, and exploring, Congo Falls Park is inside Congo Nature Preserve, bordering Little River Canyon.
PARKS
-Alabama Walking Park: This park boasts splash pads, playgrounds, and a paved walking track. It’s the perfect spot for family outings and enjoying the great outdoors.
-City Park: As the town’s oldest park, Fort Payne City Park features the original fountain from the Dekalb Hotel. Plus, statues honoring the iconic country music group Alabama add a delightful touch of nostalgia.
HISTORY
-The Depot Museum: Housed in a unique limestone building, this museum showcases relics from the railroad era and local -Native American artifacts. Be sure not to miss the caboose!
-Sawyer Building (c. 1878): Step back in time with the Victorian architectural details of the Sawyer Building.
-Opera House: A cultural hub where plays and musical events come to life.
-Fort Payne Iron and Coal Company Building: Once an industrial site, it has transformed into an event venue.
Explore these gems and immerse yourself in Fort Payne’s rich history and natural beauty!
OTHER FORT PAYNE FAVORITES:
-Boom Town Makers Market Founded in 2016, this vibrant market celebrates the handcrafted work of talented Southern Makers. Explore beautifully crafted jewelry, soaps, textiles, paintings, and gourmet food—all in a curated environment. It’s just two blocks away, so make sure to add it to your must-shop list!
-Orbix Hot Glass Get ready for a unique experience! Design and literally “blow” your own ornament with the guidance of skilled glass artists. Remember to wear comfortable cotton clothing (jeans work well) and closed-toe shoes for safety.
-ALICE CIRCLE Custom Designs: Unleash your creativity at ALICE CIRCLE—an art bar, event space, and gift haven. Whether you’re customizing designs or attending one of their exciting events, you’ll find inspiration and artistic vibes here.
Enjoy your time exploring Fort Payne’s artistic gems!
MAINSTREET RESTAURANTS AND SHOPPING:
-Caffeine Haven: The Spot Coffee Shop is right around the corner. Sip your latte & soak in the vibes of our town's most loved coffee shop!
-Culinary Delights: Foodies, rejoice! Vintage 1889 Restaurant awaits you just down the road. Imagine savoring delectable dishes in a charming, vintage-inspired setting. From farm-to-table delights to mouthwatering desserts, your taste buds are in for a treat.
-Pizza Paradise: Mater’s Pizza crafts their own dough and blends cheeses to create one of the biggest and best pizzas you’ll ever sink your teeth into. Whether you’re a classic Margherita fan or crave loaded toppings, they’ve got your pizza dreams covered.
-Roadside ‘Que: Locally sourced, flavor-packed barbecue. Pair it with a drink on the outdoor patio.
-The Bakehouse: Stop by the Bakehouse for Artisanal loves and decadent desserts that will make your taste buds dance!
-Shopping Adventures: Stroll through local boutiques and galleries where you’ll find handmade crafts and vintage treasures. Main Street offers a very unique shopping experience!
-Community Theater: Catch a show at the community theater, where local talent shines. From plays to musical performances, immerse yourself in the arts.
-Boom Days Heritage Celebration: If you’re around in September, don’t miss the Boom Days Street Festival. It’s a family-friendly carnival steeped in Southern charm, featuring local artists, performers, and mouthwatering food vendors.
-Quaint Setting: Main Street Fort Payne embodies the spirit of simpler times. As you wander, you’ll feel the nostalgia and warmth of a tight-knit community.
Come and see why Fort Payne is at the top of the most visited towns in Alabama, second only to the beaches!
